The reference site for Enalapril

Enalapril, sold under the brand name Vasotec among others, is a medication used to treat high blood pressure, diabetic kidney disease, and heart failure.

WHAT IS ENALAPRIL?

Enalapril can be used alone in treating high blood pressure. Its blood pressure lowering effect can be further enhanced by the addition of a diuretic medication.

By reducing resistance in the arteries, enalapril can be useful in the treatment of congestive heart failure. In treating heart failure, enalapril usually supplements conventional treatment, including a diuretic and digoxin (Lanoxin®).

Furthermore, after a heart attack, enalapril has been found to be effective in improving functioning of the damaged heart, and in reducing symptoms and hospitalizations related to heart failure.

It is marketed by Merck & Co. under the trade names, Renitec® and Vasotec®.

Brand Name(s): VasotecCAS nº: 75847-73-3
(e nal’ a pril)

Product Info

The sections below will provide you with more specific information and guidelines related to enalapril and its correct use. Please read them carefully.

FDA Information

Enalapril was approved by the FDA in December 1985.

Enalapril is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that enalapril is known to be harmful to an unborn baby.

Enalapril can be used alone in treating high blood pressure. Its blood pressure lowering effect can be further enhanced by the addition of a diuretic medication.

By reducing resistance in the arteries, enalapril can be useful in the treatment of congestive heart failure. In treating heart failure, enalapril usually supplements conventional treatment, including a diuretic and digoxin (Lanoxin).

After a heart attack, enalapril has been found to be effective in improving functioning of the damaged heart, and in reducing symptoms and hospitalizations related to heart failure.

Other uses for this medicine

Enalapril is also sometimes used to treat kidney disease related to diabetes.

However, it is important that you talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this drug for your particular condition.

Dosage and using this medicine

Enalapril comes as a tablet to be taken by mouth.

It is usually taken once or twice a day with or without food. To help you remember to take enalapril, take it around the same time every day.

Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take enalapril exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Your doctor will probably start you on a low dose of enalapril and gradually increase your dose.

Enalapril controls high blood pressure and heart failure but does not cure them. Continue to take enalapril even if you feel well. Do not stop taking enalapril without talking to your doctor.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and non-prescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Be sure to mention any of the following: aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) such as indomethacin (Indocin®); diuretics (‘water pills’); lithium (Eskalith®, Lithobid®); and potassium supplements. Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.

Additionally, let your doctor know if you have or have ever had heart or kidney disease, lupus, scleroderma, diabetes, or angioedema, a condition that causes difficulty swallowing or breathing and painful swelling of the the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs.

If you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking enalapril.

You should know that diarrhea, vomiting, not drinking enough fluids, and sweating a lot can cause a drop in blood pressure, which may cause lightheadedness and fainting.

Important: Do not take enalapril if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant while taking enalapril, call your doctor immediately. Enalapril may harm the fetus.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule.

Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, arms, or legs
difficulty breathing or swallowing
fainting
rash
yellowing of the skin or eyes
fever, sore throat, and other signs of infection

Enalapril may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).

Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Please make sure you talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

In case of an emergency/overdose

In the case of an overdose, call your local poison control center on 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, please call the local emergency services immediately on 911.

Symptoms of overdose may include:

light-headedness
fainting
dizziness
weakness
fatigue

Product Images

PICTURES OF ENALAPRIL PILLS

Below you will find images and specific information on the principal types of enalapril that exist, including their respective brand name(s), strength, inscription codes and manufacturers.

The information below includes general information and guidelines for patients taking this medication and should never be used to substitute professional medical advice that can be provided by a qualified physician or family doctor.